How to Write a CV in Cambodia: Format & Guide 2026
Cambodia's economy has transformed dramatically since the 1990s, growing into one of Southeast Asia's most dynamic developing markets. Garment and textile manufacturing remains the backbone of exports, but tourism, real estate, and a rapidly expanding technology and digital economy in Phnom Penh have added new dimensions to the job market. Understanding what Cambodian employers in each sector expect from a CV separates successful applications from the rest.
The Cambodian CV Format
The document is called a CV (Curriculum Vitae) or resume in Cambodia, with CV being more common in formal contexts. Standard length is two pages for experienced professionals. Recent graduates and entry-level candidates use one to two pages.
CVs are typically written in English for private sector, multinational, and professional roles. For government positions, Khmer (Cambodian language) is used, and official forms are required. For mid-size domestic businesses, a bilingual CV in both Khmer and English is often effective.
Personal Information
Cambodian CVs include personal information broadly consistent with Southeast Asian conventions:
- Full name
- Date of birth
- Gender
- Nationality
- Address (district and city)
- Mobile phone number
- Email address
- LinkedIn (for management and professional roles)
Marital status is commonly included on Cambodian CVs, particularly for applications to traditional businesses and government. For international company applications, it may be omitted.
Professional Photo
A formal passport-style photograph is expected and standard on Cambodian CVs. Place it in the upper right corner. Use a professionally taken photograph in formal business attire.
Cambodia's Economy: Key Employment Sectors
Garment and textile manufacturing: The largest export sector, employing approximately 700,000 workers. Global brands including H&M, Gap, Nike, and Puma source from Cambodian factories. Industrial management, quality control, compliance, and supply chain roles exist alongside production floor positions.
Tourism and hospitality: Before the pandemic, tourism contributed significantly to GDP. Phnom Penh, Siem Reap (Angkor Wat), and Sihanoukville are the main tourism hubs. Hotel chains including Raffles, Rosewood, Hyatt, and Sokha employ hospitality professionals.
Microfinance and banking: Cambodia has one of the world's most developed microfinance sectors relative to its GDP. Acleda Bank, Wing, Hattha Bank, and numerous MFIs employ finance and development professionals.
NGO and development sector: Phnom Penh is a significant hub for international NGOs and development organizations. USAID, ADB, World Bank, and dozens of INGOs are active.
Technology and e-commerce: A growing startup ecosystem in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap is creating demand for software developers, digital marketers, and product managers.
Education
The Royal University of Phnom Penh (RUPP), National University of Management (NUM), Royal University of Law and Economics (RULE), and the Institute of Technology of Cambodia (ITC) are the most recognized national institutions. International degrees from Thailand, Malaysia, Australia, France, and the US are highly valued.
Work Experience
Reverse chronological order. For each role include:
- Employer name and sector
- Job title
- Dates (month and year)
- City
- Three to four bullet points on specific responsibilities and measurable outcomes
For NGO applications, demonstrate experience with project management, community engagement, M&E (Monitoring and Evaluation), and donor reporting. For corporate roles, quantify your achievements in revenue, cost savings, or efficiency improvements.
Languages
Khmer is the official national language and is essential for government roles and community engagement. English is the primary language of international business, NGOs, tourism, and professional services. Chinese (Mandarin) has grown in importance given significant Chinese investment in Cambodia.
Common CV Mistakes in Cambodia
- No photo when one is expected regionally
- Generic descriptions for NGO roles that do not demonstrate specific impact
- Omitting Khmer language proficiency for roles that serve local communities
- Not tailoring for the sector (NGO, tourism, garment, tech) with relevant terminology